Marta Console Camprini

Why did you want to study in Birmingham?

In the end, it was Birmingham's beautiful campus that convinced me to study here. I really wanted to feel part of university life, to meet people easily, and to have everything nearby. It’s like a student village!

Why did you want to study Modern Languages - what stood out?

I wanted to do something I loved of course, and when I went for a taster session I was struck by the professors who were intelligent and knowledgeable. I knew I was in the right place. The department seemed so big and so varied that I knew I’d meet interesting people and learn interesting new things. 

What are your favourite places to visit in the Midlands?

For a nice weekend activity with friends, Winterbourne House & Gardens (a 5 minute walk from campus) and Harborne (half an hour from campus by bus) are a staple. I love finding a cosy café to go to or a row of nice shops. This year I really want to explore the green outskirts of the city, which offer nature walks and rolling hills that you wouldn’t associate with Birmingham.

Is there anything you’ve found challenging about living in the UK and if so, how have you overcome this?

I will say, I found it was less easy to make friends in the corridors or in other daily places than I hoped, so joining societies and keeping up to date with events (university-run or non-university) has been crucial. 

Describe an average week in your life?

Monday to Friday, I wake up early and have breakfast a with my housemates, and sometimes we will walk to uni together. During the week I have my classes, spend some time in the library, go home for lunch and spend time with friends in the common study areas.

Once a week, my flatmates and I will visit Winterbourne House& Gardens for lunch or a scone and have a walk around, or we’ll do the same thing in Harborne or Bournville. Most evenings during the week, I cook a nice meal for myself and relax by reading a book or watching TV with my housemates.

I like to be involved in societies like Artsoc (Art society) and Writers’ Bloc (Creative Writing society) who always organise interesting events. Sometimes I’ll run errands in the city centre (very easy to get to) and have a look at what’s new. Overall, I am able to fully immerse myself in university life, whilst still exploring the surrounding area as if I was a visitor. 

How do you think your degree and studying abroad will support your future plans?

I think my degree will be a great baseline to prove to employers that I work hard, can communicate well with people in different situations and have a keen attitude towards learning and broadening my horizons.

Having studied for a year abroad, this shows that I've been able to develop key soft skills, like being able to adapt to a new environment, engage with a new culture and be independent. The two things combined I hope will support my future endeavours by preparing me for unexpected challenges and how to resolve them. If I wanted to move to another country for work, I would be equipped to do this.